30 Simple Living Room Curtain Ideas to Perfect Your Space
The best options for small spaces, big windows, modern setups, you name it!
Whether you have small or big windows, statement drapery might be the finishing touch your space needs. Not only will the right window treatments elevate your living room design, they can help create the illusion of a larger room, provide privacy and filter sunlight. No matter your home style, we've rounded up an array of living room curtain ideas that will transform your space.
Ranging from simple to striking, floor-length curtains are a popular choice for the living room. That might mean off-white sheers that allow natural light to pour into your space, moody blackout curtains ideal for movie night or something in between, like patterned light-filtering drapes. We've included modern curtain designs showcasing grommet panels, fabric blinds and Roman shades, plus more traditional treatments, like valances and balloon shades. Once you've selected a style, consider a color and pattern that matches your overall design aesthetic — whether you'd like your curtains to act as a focal point or blend into the background.
"Whether you want them to simply accentuate an already well-designed area, or add some flair, curtains can be one of the easiest ways to make your home look like a designer got their hands on it," says Kristin Harrison of Bungalow 10 Interiors. Keep in mind: To hang curtains like an interior designer, install curtain rods at the correct height (about 4 to 6 inches above your window) and ensure your panels are at least few inches wider than your windows.
Hanging High
For instant drama and the illusion of a larger space, hang curtain rods at least six inches above your windows. Here, designer Kristin Harrison of Bungalow 10 Interiors goes for gray sheers with purple undertones to allow natural light to pass through.
RELATED: 50 Modern Living Rooms Filled With Fresh Ideas for 2023
Coastal Chic
Blue-and-white geometric curtains are a gorgeous finishing touch in this nautical-inspired living room. To stay on theme, designer Caitlin Kah layers in pale blue hues in the form of throw pillows, books, an end table and lamp.
Total Blackout
As much as we cherish natural light, total darkness is a must for movie night. Take note from design firm Truss Interiors and opt for floor-to-ceiling blackout drapes that easily open and close.
Color Contrast
Utilize curtains to create a living space filled with contrast, as design firm Daley Home does here. Light gray drapes are hung high on industrial-inspired black curtain rods that match the black window trim.
Semi-Sheer Shades
Nix the drapes and instead, go for light-filtering shades that allow natural light to fill the room while affording a bit of privacy. Here, The Residency Bureau opts for textured shades in a modern living room where floor-length curtains could have felt too busy.
Refined Neutral
While curtains can serve as a focal point, they can also look beautiful when blending into the background. Beige drapes hung on sleek black rods add an elegant appeal to this cozy living room designed by Element Design Network.
Classic Black and White
In this trendy living room by designer Kerrie Kelly, black-and-white patterned curtains double as artwork. They serve as a stylish backdrop for the equally as chic blue velvet curved sofa.
RELATED: Best Curved Sofas to Ensure a Chic Living Room Design
Bold Stripes
You may not expect that daring drapes complement a floral patterned wallpaper, but this striking living room is proof. You never go wrong with classic vertical striped curtains, especially when elegantly paired with a valance.
Stylish Symmetry
When a space is filled with patterns, colors and textures, solid-color curtains can help to balance the look. Here, designer Katie Davis dresses two windows identically for added symmetry.
White on White
Floor-length, sheer white curtains add a sophisticated flair to this airy living room by Curated Nest. The walls and sofa in complementary neutrals unify the space.
Statement Orange
Bold orange patterned drapes steal the show in this inviting living room. The brown leather upholstery used for the armchair and ottomans, along with the graphic throw pillows, complement the long window treatments.
Doubling Up
For double the style and function, adorn your windows with Roman shades and floor-length drapes. In this neutral living room, Collected Interiors takes the opportunity to pair textured shades with elegant off-white curtains.
Layers of Pattern
To let this living room's statement art and tufted pink sofa really shine, designer Marie Cloud of Indigo Pruitt opted for simple black-and-white geometric curtains.
Pops of Blue
This living room may be dominated by a mix of whites and beige tones, but pops of blue — including curtains — prevent it from feeling sterile.
Touch of Ombré
If you've been longing to test the ombré trend in a small way, take inspiration from this living room's curtains. The white upper portion blends well with the white walls and mantel, while the pink part acts as the perfect complement to the room's blue and gray seating.
Go Green
Nothing beats statement accents like a lime green sofa and curtains to make a design scheme shine.
RELATED: Light and Dark Green Living Room Ideas for a Relaxing Refresh
Subtle Print
Curtains in a muted print prevent this neutral beach house from feeling lackluster. Plus, the small curtain rings and expansive curtain rods framing the room make it possible to reconfigure the drapes as needed.
Elegant Balloon Shades
Off-white balloon shades and mixed floral touches add drama to this vintage-inspired living room.
All for Stripes
In this lively living room, colorful striped curtains draw the eye to the windows and play a role in the room's red-green color palette.
Classic Gingham
Believe it or not, gingham is a versatile print that's perfect for curtains. In this living room, the choice of black and white creates a focal point among the shades of green and gray.
Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand's home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, "What's in My Cart."
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.
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